Sharp undergoes emergency appendectomy

Blackhawks forward to miss bulk of training camp

September 13, 2011

Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp underwent an emergency appendectomy Monday night that will cause the veteran to miss at least the bulk of training camp and could put his availability for the season opener in jeopardy.

"Sharp underwent an emergent surgical appendectomy (Monday) evening after experiencing some abnormal abdominal discomfort," team physician Michael Terry said in a statement. "The surgery was successful and I anticipate a full recovery in approximately three to four weeks."

The initial on-ice session of training camp is Saturday, and after seven preseason games the Hawks will open the regular season Oct. 7 against the Stars in Dallas.

Sharp arrived at a charity golf event Monday morning at Sunset Ridge Country Club in Northfield but experienced discomfort and did not play.

The 29-year-old, who signed a five-year, $29.5 million contract extension in August, had 34 goals and 37 assists last season.